Chemical contamination in coastal areas alters shape, resistance and composition of carnivorous gastropod shells

Author(s)

Gouveia, Nayara ; Oliveira, Ana Julya L. A. ; Yokota Harayashiki, Cyntia Ayumi ; Souza, Josiane Carneiro ; Longo, Elson ; Cano, Nilo F. ; Maltez, Heloisa Franca ; Lourenco, Rafael Andre ; Turpo-Huahuasoncco, Klinton, V ; Castro, Italo Braga

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Chemosphere; v. 307, p. 10-pg., 2022-08-06.

Abstract

Morphological, structural and compositional alterations in shells of molluscs have been proposed as putative biomarkers of chemical contamination in coastal zones. Despite this, few studies were carried out using top predator gastropods which tend to be more susceptible to contamination exposure. Thus, the present study assessed disturbances on shells of Stramonita brasiliensis considering compression resistance and organic and mineralogical matrix composition, related to morphometric alterations. Results showed reductions in compres-sion resistance and organic matrix content associated with higher contaminated sites. In addition, a predomi-nance of calcite polymorphs was seen in shells obtained in polluted areas. Such outputs were consistent with local contamination levels which may have induced the observed alterations. Thus, changes in mollusc shells showed good performance as potential biomarkers of coastal contamination, being probably observed in other species of carnivorous gastropods around the world. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 18/08015-0 - Shell structural alterations and biochemical responses in limpets as biomarkers of environmental contamination
• Grantee: Cyntia Ayumi Yokota Harayashiki
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 13/07296-2 - CDMF - Center for the Development of Functional Materials
• Grantee: Elson Longo da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research, Innovation and Dissemination Centers - RIDC
• FAPESP's process: 15/25063-0 - Shell alterations in Lottia subrugosa as putative biomarker for multi-impacted coastal areas
• Grantee: Ítalo Braga de Castro
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants